Joao Pedro to spearhead the attack: Predicted 3-4-2-1 Chelsea lineup vs Arsenal
Chelsea take on reigning Premier League champions Arsenal in a mouthwatering London derby at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday evening.
The Blues have started the Xabi Alonso era in a strong fashion with back-to-back Premier League wins. They opened the 2026/27 campaign with a 3-2 win over West London rivals Fulham at Craven Cottage, before an explosive 4–3 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge last weekend.
Xabi Alonso’s side boast a maximum of six points with seven goals scored and six goals conceded, which means they will need much greater defensive structure and discipline to stop Arsenal’s dangerous attack. A trip across the capital provides Chelsea with a great opportunity to build on their 100 per cent winning start and throw down an early-season marker.
Chelsea Team News
Moises Caicedo made his first appearance of the campaign against Brighton, but lasted only 14 minutes after replacing Pedro Neto in the second half. Alonso said last weekend that the defensive midfielder will be assessed over the week, so Caicedo remains doubtful for the trip to Arsenal.
Jordan Henderson is still recovering from wrist surgery that he suffered at the World Cup, while fellow summer signing Marco Palestra is still waiting to make his competitive Chelsea debut after missing all three games so far this season.
Predicted Chelsea lineup vs Arsenal (3-4-2-1)
Goalkeeper
Emi Martinez made his first appearance for Chelsea against Brighton after joining from Aston Villa. He will now look to stop his former club at the Emirates on Sunday.
Defence
The back three could remain the same that started in the win over Brighton. Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill have to be at their best to keep a potent Arsenal attack at bay.
Lacroix will be the central centre-back, with Fofana and Colwill on either side of the Frenchman.
Midfield
Malo Gusto is expected to retain his spot at right wing-back, but an alteration on the opposite flank could be made. Pedro Neto, who was excellent against Brighton and scored a goal, could be moved to the left wing-back slot at the expense of Jorrel Hato.
The Blues got overrun in midfield several times against Brighton, and Alonso might try addressing the issue by starting Reece James. The England international came off the bench last weekend but should start here alongside Romeo Lavia in the engine room.
Attack
James’ entry into the XI should free up Cole Palmer, who operated in a deeper role against Brighton. The Englishman should line up with Morgan Rogers as the two No.10s, trying to breach the well-oiled Arsenal defence.
Joao Pedro has started the new campaign strongly with two goals and as many assists, including a strike against his former employers. The Brazilian will spearhead the Chelsea attack once again, with Danny Welbeck hoping to haunt his ex-club off the bench.
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Joao Pedro to spearhead the attack: Predicted 3-4-2-1 Chelsea lineup vs Arsenal 1